This recipe goes viral every time I share it—and for good reason!
The natural sweetness of the apples and raisins, the rich nuttiness from the walnuts, and that warm hint of cinnamon make these my all-time favourite healthy snack bars.
They’re so easy to make, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again—I can guarantee it.
Skip the store-bought bars—these homemade apple oat bars are healthier, tastier, and easier on the wallet. With just five wholesome ingredients, they come together in no time and are perfect for busy days or cosy moments with a cup of tea.
Naturally sweetened with apples and raisins, and packed with oats and walnuts for a satisfying bite, these bars are a great way to enjoy a snack that’s both nourishing and delicious. Plus, the warm hint of cinnamon makes them a seasonal favourite. Prepare, bake, and let them cool completely before slicing into the perfect grab-and-go snack.
Tips
- Use soft apples – Overripe apples work brilliantly here, adding natural sweetness and moisture. No waste, just flavour!
- Line your tin with baking paper – This makes it super easy to lift the bars out without sticking or breaking.
- Press the mixture firmly – Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to really pack it down. This helps the bars hold together once baked.
- No food processor? – Just grate the apples, finely chop the raisins and walnuts, and mix everything in a bowl.
- Let them cool fully before slicing – They firm up as they cool. Cutting too early can cause them to crumble.
- For cleaner slices – Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
- Double the batch – These bars store really well and freeze beautifully. Make extra and keep a stash for busy days.
- Use a square tin or loaf tin – A 20cm tin works well for 6–7 bars at around 2cm height, as recommended.
Swaps
Walnuts: Try pecans or hazelnuts for a different nutty note and crunch. For a softer texture, ground almonds also work.
Raisins: Swap with dates, dried figs, or dried apricots (chopped). Just make sure they’re soft for easier blending.
Apples: Pears work beautifully too—just make sure they’re ripe and juicy for that natural sweetness and moisture.
Cinnamon: You could use mixed spice, nutmeg, or even a little ginger for a warming seasonal twist..
Storage
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. This also helps firm them up and makes them easier to slice.
Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped bars (in parchment or reusable wraps) for up to 2 months. Defrost at room temperature or pop in a warm oven for a few minutes to refresh.
On the go: Wrap bars in parchment or pop them in a reusable snack pouch—perfect for lunchboxes, travel, or a quick snack after workouts.
More Healthy Snacks
5-Ingredient Apple Oat Bars
Ingredients
- 160 oats
- 60 walnuts
- 130 raisins
- 2 apples
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a food processor and blitz.
- Add the mixture into a baking tin and squish well, you want to the oat to be 2 cm high.
- Bake at 180C for 20-25 mins
- Once ready, remove from the tin and let it cool down completely on a baking rack.
- Cut into slices.